Apple has just announced that it's ditching a major feature for 70 million potential iPhone owners, but the tech giant is confident that you'll 'love' what they're introducing to replace it.
Smartphones in general are more expensive than ever before, and that's especially the case for iPhones which are among the priciest options on the market all things considered.
While the recently released iPhone 17 might be considered Apple's best deal in years by many fans, it's still an expensive outlay that many people can't afford outright, and that's not even considering the even-more-costly iPhone 17 Pro which will set you back over over $1,000 at the very least.
That's why many relied on finance options and upgrade plans to not only pay for their current phone but also create a pathway to the newest devices whenever they are released, with Apple's own 'iPhone Upgrade Programme' being among the most popular.
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However, the tech giant has just announced that major changes are on the way for UK customers, with a new system introduced that'll be taking its place.
Taking a look at Apple's official information page, the company asserts that while the previous feature is coming to an end, they "think you'll love what's next," assuring customers that they don't need to do anything different right now.
What's being introduced instead is called the 'Flexible Finance Account', and it's all powered by finance company Creation for those who purchase their devices at the Apple Store.
"The good news is, it gives you even more options when it's time for the latest iPhone," Apple outlines on the support page. "Whether applying in-store or online, choose a plan that works for you and get ready to upgrade."
The previous system worked by having customers pay an upfront cost alongside a monthly fee in exchange for a new iPhone and Apple Care+, and while this contract typically lasts for 24 months, there would be an option to upgrade at the 12-month midway point, so long as your current phone is in good condition.
With a Flexible Finance Account, however, customers have a several different options to choose from depending on how long they want the contract for and when they'll be happy with an upgrade.
There's options for just about every main gadget that Apple sells from the iPhone to the Vision Pro VR headset, with each one offering different payment plans and varying levels of interest.
For the iPhone 17 lineup there's currently two options:
- 20-Month Plan, £39.95/month (0% interest), upgrade after 11 monthly payments
- 30-Month Plan, £26.63/month (0% interest), upgrade after 23 monthly payments
As you can see this is slightly different to what was on offer previously, giving you a shorter plan with an earlier upgrade in exchange for higher payments, or a longer, cheaper plan if you're happy skipping an iPhone cycle.
Additionally, your Flexible Finance Account with Creation lets you see how much credit you've built up over the course of the plan, letting you know how far you are away from a new upgrade or from paying off the contract completely.